Eleanor the Great Movie is an emotionally rich, character-driven drama directed by Scarlett Johansson, marking one of her most ambitious creative ventures behind the camera. Written by Tory Kamen, the film explores the life of Eleanor Morgenstein, a 94-year-old woman who refuses to be ordinary — even in the face of devastating loss.
Led by Academy Award–nominated actress June Squibb, along with talented stars Erin Kellyman and Chiwetel Ejiofor, the film blends humor, grief, adventure, and raw human truth in a beautifully crafted narrative.
Movie Details – Eleanor the Great
| Category | Details |
| Title | Eleanor the Great |
| Genre | Drama / Adventure / Emotional Comedy |
| Director | Scarlett Johansson |
| Writer | Tory Kamen |
| Cast | June Squibb, Erin Kellyman, Chiwetel Ejiofor |
| Lead Character | Eleanor Morgenstein (94 years old) |
Story Overview – A Woman Who Won’t Stay Quiet
At the heart of the film is Eleanor Morgenstein, a 94-year-old woman who has lived a full, rebellious, and unapologetic life. After suffering a heart breaking personal loss, Eleanor decides to tell a story — one that begins innocently but soon takes on a life of its own.

Key Themes of the Story
- Grief and emotional healing
- Unpredictable consequences of imagination
- The beauty of late-life courage
- A humorous yet touching look at aging
- The power of storytelling
As Eleanor narrates her tale, reality and fiction begin to blur, creating situations that are both dangerous and darkly comedic. The film balances emotional vulnerability with mischievous charm, making Eleanor one of the most memorable elderly protagonists in modern cinema.
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Character Highlights & Performances
June Squibb as Eleanor Morgenstein
June Squibb delivers a captivating, heartfelt performance. At 94, her portrayal is filled with:
- Sharp wit
- Emotional resilience
- Quirky unpredictability
- Vulnerability layered with strength
She brings Eleanor to life with humor and dignity, making her a protagonist audiences instantly root for.
Erin Kellyman
Erin Kellyman plays a key supporting role that complements Eleanor’s journey. Her character adds emotional grounding and youthful contrast, helping shape the film’s intergenerational dynamic.
Chiwetel Ejiofor
Ejiofor brings gravitas and warmth, adding dramatic depth to Eleanor’s unpredictable adventure. His presence strengthens the emotional beats of the film.
Scarlett Johansson – A Confident Directorial Vision
Known primarily for her acting career, Scarlett Johansson surprises audiences with a refined, heartfelt directing approach. Her style in Eleanor the Great reflects:
- Subtle emotional framing
- Strong character focus
- Natural comedic timing
- Beautiful balance between tenderness and chaos
Johansson handles the sensitive subject of aging and grief with respect, while also celebrating the rebellious spirit of a woman who refuses to accept the limits placed on her.
Emotional Depth & Tonal Balance
The film stands out because of its careful blend of:
Heartfelt Drama
Eleanor’s emotional wounds are explored in a relatable and honest manner.
Quirky Humour
Her “proudly troublesome” personality creates unexpected comedic moments.
Unexpected Danger
As Eleanor’s imagination spills into reality, the stakes rise, turning her story into an unpredictable adventure.
Life-Affirming Message
The film celebrates the courage to live boldly, no matter the age.
Visual & Technical Craft
Although character-driven, the film is supported by strong technical work:
Direction
Johansson creates a warm visual palette, mixing realism with imaginative sequences that mirror Eleanor’s storytelling.
Cinematography
Gentle lighting, close-up emotional framing, and soft colors emphasize the whimsical yet heartfelt tone.
Editing
Smooth transitions between fantasy-like storytelling and real-world situations help maintain clarity and pace.
Music
Soft, reflective background music enhances the film’s emotional resonance.
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Why Eleanor the Great Stands Out
✔ A rare film led by a 94-year-old female protagonist
✔ Emotionally powerful yet humorously rebellious
✔ Strong performances by an exceptional cast
✔ A meaningful story about loss, imagination, and resilience
✔ Beautifully directed by Scarlett Johansson
✔ A fresh cinematic perspective on aging and storytelling
It is a heartfelt drama suitable for:
- Mature audiences
- Fans of character-driven stories
- Viewers who appreciate emotional narratives
- Lovers of warm, quirky comedy
- Anyone seeking a film with soul and originality
Official Trailer
Conclusion – A Touching, Memorable Journey
Eleanor the Great is a poignant, beautifully crafted film that celebrates the spirit of a woman who refuses to fade quietly. June Squibb delivers one of the most powerful performances of her career, while Scarlett Johansson shines with thoughtful direction.
⭐ Predicted Rating: 4.5 / 5
A touching, humorous, and unforgettable ode to imagination, grief, and strength at any age.
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